Printing on denim is a trendy and unique way to showcase your designs and add some creativity to your garments, but we know getting it right can be tricky. At AWDis, we’ve got the experience of working with our incredible So Denim range to know some of the common mistakes you might be making when printing on denim, so let’s cover everything you need to know about how to avoid these pitfalls.
Starting With the Basics: Can You Print on Denim?
Let’s start simple, beginning with whether you can print on denim. The answer to this question is a resounding yes, with printing being one of the most popular methods for personalising denim outfit pieces.
Using a number of methods such as direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, screen printing, and heat transfer, this customisation technique is perfect for adding images, text, and colour to items like our iconic Noah Denim Jacket.
We will cover a little later how you can print to perfection, but let’s focus first on some of the common mistakes you might be making when trying to print on your denim pieces.
Printing on Denim: 4 Mistakes You Might Be Making
1. Výběr špatného typu džínoviny.
Denim varies massively in weight and texture. The breathable feel of lightweight denim will respond to printing methods much differently than durable heavyweight denim, so choosing the right type is key for achieving the customisation results you’re looking for.
Lighter denim, like our Ladies’ Lara Skinny Jeans, is much easier to work with. It’s easier to control, absorbs ink better, and features less surface variation than heavier denim. Heavyweight garments may require more specialised equipment to print on, such as a higher-quality printer or heavy-duty heat press.
2. Using the wrong printing technique.
Each printing technique has its own characteristics and quirks, and knowing which to use and how to approach it is essential for ensuring your print looks as intended. Heat transfer, for example, is one of the most common methods for printing on denim, but setting your printer’s heat too high can damage the material and potentially ruin your design with scorching.
DTG, on the other hand, is a great alternative, but you also have to ensure that you use a high-quality printer and ink that will adhere well to denim. Not doing so can result in faded colours, a rubbery feel, or mechanical errors.
3. Použití nesprávného typu inkoustu.
When printing on denim, the type of ink you use will determine the finish of your design. While you may know exactly what you want your design to be, taking the time to assess which ink type is most appropriate will ensure that your design looks and feels as intended.
Plastisol, for example, tends to sit on top of denim, giving a stiffer overall finish. If you’re looking to give your design a softer, more integrated feel, water-based inks are preferred, as they soak into the denim with greater effect.
4. Nevyléčení vašeho designu.
Curing is a critical step in denim printing. Using heat to prevent your ink from getting washed out of the fabric is essential for ensuring the durability and longevity of your design.
Skipping this step can be detrimental, as proper curing allows the design to set into the fabric effectively, meaning it will withstand repeated wearing and washing.
Getting It Right: How To Print on Denim
Now that we’ve covered what to avoid, let’s look at how to print on denim for lasting, vibrant designs. Once you have selected your printing method, you can proceed with one of the following processes. Remember, whichever you choose, a pre-print wash is recommended to ensure your garment is ready for printing.
Heat transfer
- Pre-press: Place your garment onto your heat press and press it for 3 to 5 seconds to remove wrinkles and moisture.
- Transfer placement: Position your heat transfer onto your garment.
- Set temperature: Set your press to 300-330°F.
- Press: Press your garment for approximately 15 seconds.
- Aftercare: Once cooled, peel your transfer and press again for 3 to 5 seconds. Wash your garment in cold water and hang to dry for lasting results.
Direct-to-garment (DTG)
- Pre-treatment: Apply pre-treatment, especially for white ink and darker garments.
- Load printer: Once pre-treatment is dry, flatten your garment as much as possible and load it onto the printer.
- Adjust printer: Ensure your printer is properly adjusted for your material and colour.
- Print: Print on your garment.
- Curing: Using a silicone sheet, heat press your garment for about 90 seconds at 320°F.
Screen printing
- Preparation: Flatten your garment out and fill it with a piece of cardboard to prevent ink bleed.
- Positioning: Place your design screen on top of your garment.
- Application: Apply a small amount of fabric screen print ink and use a squeegee to pull the ink down over your garment. Do this twice to clean off any excess.
- Curing: Use a heat press or iron to cure your ink.
Find the Perfect Denim Garments Here at AWDis
At AWDis, we offer a range of denim garments that are perfect for printing. However you want to customise your garments, our So Denim collection has the jackets, shirts, jeans, and chinos you need to personalise to perfection.
Whether you’re creating customised jackets to keep your club looking good or denim shirts that reflect your company spirit, we’ve got just what you’re looking for at AWDis. Got questions? Reach out – our team is always here to help!
